About Women's Hiking Boots

There are few things more invigorating than a good hike. Climbing a steep trail to reach beautiful vistas will not only get your heart pumping, but will also invigorate you thanks to the fresh air and physical challenge. Before you hit the trail, though, you need to make sure you have the proper gear to get the most out of your hike and protect you from injury. One of the most important parts of a hiking outfit is the boots or shoes, and if you're a woman, you'll want to carefully select the right pair that will fit your feet and provide the most comfort and performance.

Women's hiking boots come in a variety of styles, each suited to different types of hikes. To pick the right pair, you'll want to take two main factors into account: your own feet and the trail conditions you plan to encounter. For the former, you want to look for a hiking boot that offers a snug fit around your heel, with plenty of wiggle room for your toes. It should tie snugly enough to make your feet feel secure inside, but not feel too tight.

The terrain you plan to hike – and the length of your hikes – will impact the style you want to opt for. There are several styles of women's hiking boots and shoes, including the following:

Hiking shoes, also known as trail shoes, are low-cut styles with a flexible mid-sole. They are lightweight and offer less support, so they are best suited to well-defined trails and day hikes, without a lot of weight to carry. They are often ventilated with a lot of mesh.

Day hiking boots, or rough-trail shoes, are higher-cut, usually sitting around the top of the ankle. They are a bit sturdier, with enough rigidity to protect your feet on rougher trails, and are supportive enough for you to carry a light load with you. They are typically made fully of leather, with rubber toe bumpers and other protection around the soles.

Backpacking, or off-trail boots, are the biggest and sturdiest option, designed for hikers and backpackers who plan to truly trek through the wilderness. With a tall, stiff design, thicker padding and features like waterproofing, these boots are built to carry you for several days over very rough terrain, all while you carry a heavy load. Many even have features that allow you to attach crampons or snowshoes.

You’re going to need to try on women’s hiking boots in person to ensure a proper fit, so it’s best to visit a specialty shoe store, or an outdoor sports retailer such as REI, where experts can help guide you to the right pair. If you are looking to replace an old pair of women’s hiking boots, or just looking for a great deal on a pair you like, try an online retailer such as Amazon.